Leeds United: Luke Ayling shares message as tribute made to Elland Road career, 'I'll be back'

James is a sports journalist with a degree in Sports Journalism and Communications (MA) from the Real Madrid Graduate School. He has experience working for a number of local news outlets as well as the Sunday Mirror and Real Madrid TV. While football is his number one sport, he also has a love for cricket.

Published on:

24 Jan 2024, 11:25 am

Luke Ayling has reacted to the news that a pub has been temporarily renamed after him following his loan move from Leeds United to Middlesbrough.

The Old Peacock on Elland Road confirmed on its Twitter page on Tuesday (23 January) that it will now be called the "The Luke Ale Inn" for the remainder of the season to honour his years of service at the club.

Responding to the news, the 32-year-old right-back posted on his Instagram story on Wednesday (24 January) that it was an "honour" and that he "can't wait" to go in and have a pint once the season is over, adding that he'll be "back to say goodbye" one day.

"What an honour," said Ayling. "Can't wait to get in and have a pint once the season is over. Obviously, I am really focused on making sure I do everything I can to push on at Middlesbrough but one day I'll be back to say goodbye and the drinks are on me."

Nice touch

It's a nice touch from the pub to rename itself after Ayling for the next few months after he was a great servant to Leeds for several years.

While his departure in the January transfer window was met with sadness amongst many of the club's fans, they understood that he needed to move on to get some regular game time.

It's great to see that the news reached Ayling and he's committed himself to going in for a pint once the season comes to an end, while even suggesting the drinks will be on him.

But the English right-back probably won't be short on drinks offers after racking up 268 appearances for the club in what was the most successful period at Elland Road over the past 20 years.

Although his time hasn't officially come to an end in West Yorkshire just yet, all those associated with the Whites will wish him well for the future.

In other Leeds United news, a Sky Sports pundit blasted one Whites star for what he did against Preston.

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